Phytochemical evaluation of selected Phalaenopsis cultivars

The genus Phalaenopsis in family Orchidaceae has gained popularity in the global floriculture market for its value as potted plants and cut flowers. Hybridization plays a pivotal role in breeding Phalaenopsis, enabling the development of novel cultivars with desirable traits such as diverse floral pigmentation patterns, enhanced longevity and improved growth rate. The selection of suitable parental cultivars is a crucial determinant in the hybridization process, as it plays a key role in defining pigmentation patterns and enhancing desirable traits for the development of superior cultivars. This research investigated the phytochemical composition, including carotenoids, anthocyanins, flavonoids and phenolics contents of selected commercial Phalaenopsis cultivars. Using UV-vis spectrophotometry, the chlorophylls, flavonoids, carotenoids, anthocyanins and phenolics contents in the flowers, leaves and roots of six cultivars were analyzed quantitatively. The results revealed significant variations in phytochemical properties across the tested cultivars and plant organs. Phalaenopsis cvs. Taipei Gold Gold Star, Red Lip 1770, Golden Sands Canary, Sogo Yukidian V3 and Queen Beer Mantefon exhibited promising phytochemical profiles. Notably, cvs. Taipei Gold Gold Star, Golden Sands Canary and Queen Beer Mantefon were identified as ideal parental candidates for hybridization due to their potential to develop distinctive floral colorations and robust vegetative traits. These findings provide valuable insights into the floral coloration and the phytochemical richness of vegetative parts in Phalaenopsis cultivars. This knowledge can contribute to the development of innovative, high-quality cultivars with enhanced survival rates and greater consumer appeal.